In a milestone for private space exploration, Tokyo-based ispace’s Resilience lander has successfully entered lunar orbit, kicking off the final countdown to a June touchdown on the moon.
Launched in January aboard a SpaceX rocket alongside U.S.-based Firefly Aerospace’s lander, Resilience is set to make history as one of the first private spacecraft to attempt a soft landing. Firefly Aerospace secured its spot in space annals with a successful March landing, followed closely by Intuitive Machines—though its rover ended up tilted in a crater.
Now, Resilience takes center stage. Targeting the first week of June, the lander will deploy a mini rover equipped with a soil scoop and scientific instruments to gather lunar samples and run experiments. This mission builds on ispace’s previous attempt, which ended in a 2023 crash, showcasing the determination and resilience driving private space companies forward.
At a time when global interest in the moon is surging—from government agencies to startup space firms—Resilience represents a leap in tech innovation and international collaboration. Success could pave the way for more frequent lunar missions, new business opportunities in off-world resource extraction, and deeper scientific insights into Earth’s nearest neighbor.
As the world watches, ispace’s lunar odyssey reminds us that the next frontier is open to both public and private players, inspiring a new generation of explorers and changemakers. Stay tuned for live updates as Resilience begins its descent toward the lunar surface.
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Private Japanese lunar lander enters lunar orbit for June touchdown
cgtn.com
